This is our own independent research from public sources. The employer hasn't reviewed, paid for or approved it.
Key figures
- Length of the Career Launch apprenticeship, on a fixed-term contract
- 2 years
- Source: Civil Service Careers (opens in a new tab)
- At grades 9–4 (A*–C), the minimum for Career Launch
- 2 GCSEs
- Source: Civil Service Careers (opens in a new tab)
- Cities for Career Launch roles: Birmingham, London and Manchester
- 3
- Source: Civil Service Careers (opens in a new tab)
Overview
The Civil Service runs the UK government’s departments and agencies, and thousands of people start an apprenticeship there every year, across many professions and levels.
Career Launch
Career Launch is the Civil Service’s main entry-level apprenticeship:
- Qualification: Business Administrator, Level 3
- Length: two years, on a fixed-term contract
- Where: government departments in Birmingham, London or Manchester (London roles get an extra allowance)
- Who: anyone aged 16 or older who isn’t in full-time education, with at least two GCSEs at grades 9–4
You can apply before your exam results, but you’ll need to show proof before you start. Everyone also needs to pass the Civil Service’s security vetting checks.
Departments’ own apprenticeships
Many departments run their own apprenticeships, from Level 2 up to Level 7. HMRC, for example, offers apprenticeships from Level 3 to Level 7. You get support from your line manager and a talent coach, plus apprentice networks across government.
What they do
The Civil Service runs government departments and agencies across the UK. Apprenticeships are offered across many departments and professions, at levels from 2 to 7.
Apprenticeships they offer
-
Career Launch apprenticeship
Business Administrator Level 3, across government departments
A two-year fixed-term contract combining a full-time job with study for the Level 3 qualification, in Birmingham, London or Manchester. London roles get an extra allowance.
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Department and profession apprenticeships
Many departments and professions
Individual departments run their own apprenticeships at different levels, such as HMRC and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.
Career areas
Entry requirements
- Career Launch
- At least two GCSEs at grades 9–4 (A*–C) or equivalent. You can apply before your results, but must show proof before starting. From the Career Launch page.
Who can apply
- Career Launch is open to anyone aged 16 or older who is not in full-time education.
- You must pass the security vetting checks that apply to all Civil Service jobs.
Our tips for Civil Service
- Career Launch only asks for two GCSEs, so it's a good option if your grades are lower than you hoped.
- Look at individual departments too: many run their own apprenticeships, from Level 3 up to Level 7.
- London roles come with an extra allowance for the higher cost of living, so compare that if you're choosing between cities.
Summary
- Thousands of people start an apprenticeship in the Civil Service every year.
- Career Launch is a two-year Level 3 Business Administrator apprenticeship in Birmingham, London or Manchester.
- You need to be 16 or older, not in full-time education, with at least two GCSEs at grades 9–4.
- Individual departments, like HMRC, also run apprenticeships up to Level 7.
Questions about Civil Service apprenticeships
What is the Civil Service Career Launch apprenticeship?
A two-year Level 3 Business Administrator apprenticeship on a fixed-term contract, in a government department in Birmingham, London or Manchester.
What GCSEs do you need for a Civil Service apprenticeship?
For Career Launch, at least two GCSEs at grades 9–4 (A*–C) or equivalent. You can apply before your results come out.
Can you do a Civil Service apprenticeship at 16?
Yes. Career Launch is open to anyone aged 16 or older who is not in full-time education. Read our guide to apprenticeships at 16.
Do you need security clearance for a Civil Service apprenticeship?
You must pass the security vetting checks that apply to all Civil Service jobs.
Sources and review
Last reviewed . Details can change after this date, so check the official source before you rely on them.